Rating: NNNN
American Music Club nearly missed their golden era. The soft-spoken San Francisco five-piece called it quits in 1994 but reformed 10 years later, just in time to make prudent comments on the state of America. The Golden Age, the band’s ninth release, is definitely a bit mellower in tone and subject matter than Love Songs For Patriots, but it’s no less passionate.
Musically, it’s quiet and reserved, making for a subtle but satisfying listen. The Sleeping Beauty, with it’s hushed strums and atmospheric sounds is especially memorable, while Decibels And Little Pills shows the band at its most rollicking, though that doesn’t say much.
Despite being in their musical golden years, if they keep producing music like this, it’s unlikely they’ll retire (again) any time soon.
American Music Club play Lee’s Palace April 17.